Dr sci. Jelena Veličković

Dr. Sci. Jelena Veličković is a molecular biologist and physiologist with over ten years of experience in the field of medical and forensic genetics. She earned her PhD at the Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, where she defended her dissertation in October 2017 titled: “Analysis of gene polymorphisms for the vitamin D receptor and genes associated with thrombophilia in women with idiopathic infertility.”

She was appointed as an Assistant Professor in 2019, and in 2020 she was also awarded the title of Research Associate in the field of medical sciences – genetics at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade.

Professional Experience

Throughout her career, Dr. Sci. Jelena Veličković has worked in government institutions, international research centers, and private diagnostics, with a focus on medical and forensic genetics. Her professional path includes:

• Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade: Nearly 10 years of experience in a DNA laboratory, with advanced training in forensic and medical genetics.
• Çanakkale University, Turkey (2013–2014 and 2018): Conducted research in prenatal genetics and analysis of genetic variations using NGS sequencing and CGH microarray methodology. Gained expertise in interpreting genetic findings and collaborating with international teams.
• Bilateral scientific project with the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia (2014–2015): DNA typing of ancient skeletal remains for identification purposes — a multidisciplinary study using modern molecular-genetic methods.
• Private diagnostics and laboratory system development (since 2021): Participated in the establishment of a human genetics laboratory within a private diagnostic center and contributed to improving analytical procedures.
• Founding of the IntroLab (2023): Established her own clinical diagnostic laboratory, integrating hematology, biochemistry, immunology, and genetics. Developed a specialized Department of Medical Genetics within the lab.
• Development of molecular-genetic methods at IntroLab (2023–present): Focused on PCR microbiology, oncogenetics, tissue and liquid biopsy analysis, and detection of localized viruses in the gastrointestinal tract. Built an international partner network for advanced diagnostics and access to NGS analyses.

Areas of Expertise

• Prenatal genetics – non-invasive screening and diagnostics
• Infertility and pregnancy – genetic analysis of thrombophilia and folate metabolism
• Oncogenetics – tissue and liquid biopsy analysis
• PCR microbiology – detection of localized viruses in tissue samples
• NGS and CGH array – application of advanced sequencing technologies in diagnostics
• Genetic counseling – interpretation of results and selection of appropriate tests

Education and Mentorship

In addition to her diagnostic work, Jelena is dedicated to educating future professionals in the field of genetics. She is the organizer of the MasterClass program in forensic and medical genetics—a unique hands-on training format in the region that combines theoretical knowledge with laboratory practice.

Scientific and International Work

Dr. Veličković is the author and co-author of numerous scientific papers published in international journals in the fields of genetics, molecular biology, and human reproduction.

• Google Scholar profile
• ResearchGate profile

Note: Some publications were published under her maiden name, Đurović.

She has received awards for scientific presentations and actively participates in international research projects. She also serves as a reviewer for several international scientific journals.